Summary

The GCC wheat starch market size reached USD 188.9 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 236.6 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 2.41% during 2025-2033. The extensive product application in processed foods as a thickener, binder, and texturizing agent, the growing consumption of processed and convenience foods, and the development of new food processing facilities are among the key factors driving the market growth.

Wheat starch is a carbohydrate derived from the endosperm of the wheat grain. It's a white to off-white powder with a slightly cereal-like aroma that is primarily used as a thickening agent and filler in the food industry. The starch consists of two main components: amylose and amylopectin, which give it its unique characteristics. Amylose is a linear, soluble component that contributes to gel strength, while amylopectin, a highly branched and less soluble component, imparts viscosity and stability. As a food ingredient, wheat starch contributes to texture, mouthfeel, and volume in products such as breads, pastries, noodles, and sauces. It also plays a significant role in other industries such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics for its binding and absorbent properties. Despite its widespread use, individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease need to avoid wheat starch as it may contain traces of gluten.
The GCC region has been experiencing rapid population growth, accompanied by changing dietary patterns. As the population expands and urbanizes, there is an increased demand for processed and convenience food products. Wheat starch finds extensive application in processed foods as a thickener, binder, and texturizing agent. Therefore, the rising consumption of processed and convenience foods is, therefore, driving the demand for wheat starch in the region. In addition, significant investments in their food processing industries reduce dependence on imports and enhance food security. The expansion of the food processing industry, particularly in sectors, including bakery, confectionery, sauces, and dressings, is creating a higher demand for wheat starch as a functional ingredient. Apart from this, the development of new food processing facilities and the establishment of multinational food companies in the region are contributing to the market growth of GCC wheat starch. Moreover, ongoing research and development initiatives in the GCC region to develop innovative applications and improve the functionality of wheat starch are creating a positive market outlook.

GCC Wheat Starch Market Trends/Drivers:

Increasing Demand for Wheat Starch-Based Products

The GCC wheat starch industry is being driven by the increasing demand for wheat starch-based products across various sectors. Wheat starch, derived from wheat grains, has gained significant popularity due to its versatile nature and wide range of applications. One of the key factors driving this demand is the rising consumer preference for natural and clean-label ingredients, as wheat starch is a natural and renewable resource. In the food and beverage industry, wheat starch is used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and gelling agent in various products such as bakery items, sauces, dressings, and confectionery. Along with this, the growing bakery industry in the GCC region, due to the changing consumer lifestyles and preferences, is fueling the demand for wheat starch. Moreover, the increasing awareness about gluten-free diets has led to the development of gluten-free products, wherein wheat starch serves as a substitute for wheat flour. The non-food sector also contributes to the demand for wheat starch. In the pharmaceutical industry, wheat starch is used as a binder in tablet formulations.

Growing Awareness of Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Products

The growing awareness of sustainable and eco-friendly products is a significant market driver for the GCC wheat starch industry. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, there is a growing demand for sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials and chemical additives. Wheat starch, being a natural and biodegradable substance, is well-positioned to meet this demand. The GCC region has been witnessing a shift towards sustainable practices across various industries, including packaging, textiles, and cosmetics. Wheat starch-based bioplastics, for instance, are gaining traction as a renewable and compostable alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. Furthermore, the cosmetics and personal care industry is increasingly incorporating natural and plant-based ingredients into their products. Wheat starch, with its skin-friendly properties and ability to replace synthetic thickeners and stabilizers, is finding applications in a range of personal care products like creams, lotions, and shampoos.

GCC Wheat Starch Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the GCC wheat starch market report, along with forecasts at the country level from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on end use.

Breakup by End Use:
• Food and Beverages
• Paper and Textile
• Pharmaceuticals
• Feed
• Others

Food and beverages account for the majority of the market share

A detailed breakup and analysis of the wheat starch market based on the end use has been provided in the report. This includes food and beverages, paper & textile, pharmaceuticals, feed, and others. According to the report, food and beverages accounted for the largest market share.
The food and beverages end use segment in the GCC wheat starch industry is driven by the rising consumer demand for natural and clean-label ingredients in food and beverages. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek products with transparent ingredient lists, wheat starch, derived from natural sources, serves as a versatile and functional ingredient for various food and beverage applications. Additionally, the expanding bakery industry in the GCC region, driven by changing consumer preferences and lifestyles, is creating a significant demand for wheat starch. It is used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and gelling agent in bakery products, including bread, cakes, pastries, and cookies. The GCC region has also experienced a significant rise in the popularity of convenience and packaged foods. As urbanization and busy lifestyles drive the demand for on-the-go and ready-to-eat food products, wheat starch has found its way into a diverse range of processed and convenience foods.

Breakup by Country:
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Others

United Arab Emirates (UAE) exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest the GCC wheat starch market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major countries, which include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Others. According to the report, United Arab Emirates (UAE) was the largest market for wheat starch.
The wheat starch industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is driven by the government's initiatives to promote domestic production and reduce import dependency. The government provides support to local manufacturers through subsidies, tax incentives, and low-interest loans, encouraging the establishment and expansion of wheat starch production facilities within the country. This support enhances self-sufficiency and economic growth in the UAE wheat starch industry. In addition, the escalating demand for wheat starch-based products in various sectors, such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and non-food industries, is driving the market. Wheat starch is widely used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and binder in food and beverage applications, while also finding uses in pharmaceutical formulations and as an adhesive in the non-food sector. The versatility of wheat starch and its natural properties contribute to its growing popularity in the UAE.

Competitive Landscape:

The GCC wheat starch market is experiencing significant growth due to growing investments in manufacturing facilities equipped with advanced technology and machinery to efficiently extract starch from wheat grains. Therefore, companies are focusing on optimizing production processes to ensure high-quality wheat starch with desired properties, further impacting the market. In addition, companies are actively engaged in research and development activities to enhance the functionality and applications of wheat starch. They invest in research to develop innovative solutions, improve product formulations, and explore new applications in different industries. Apart from this, the implementation of quality control measures at every stage of production and processing to ensure consistency and compliance with regulatory requirements is positively influencing the market. Moreover, key players are collaborating with research institutions, universities, and industry associations to leverage expertise, share knowledge, and drive innovation in contributing to the market.
The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the GCC wheat starch market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:
• Middle East Food Solution Company (MEFSCO)
• Almasirah International
• Delta Food Industries FZC
• Gelimax International Group

Key Questions Answered in This Report

1.How big is the GCC wheat starch market?
2.What is the expected growth rate of the GCC wheat starch market during 2025-2033?
3.What are the key factors driving the GCC wheat starch market?
4.What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the GCC wheat starch market?
5.What is the breakup of the GCC wheat starch market based on the end use?
6.What are the key regions in the GCC wheat starch market?
7.Who are the key players/companies in the GCC wheat starch market?

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Table of Contents

1 Preface
2 Scope and Methodology
2.1 Objectives of the Study
2.2 Stakeholders
2.3 Data Sources
2.3.1 Primary Sources
2.3.2 Secondary Sources
2.4 Market Estimation
2.4.1 Bottom-Up Approach
2.4.2 Top-Down Approach
2.5 Forecasting Methodology
3 Executive Summary
4 Introduction
4.1 Overview
4.2 Key Industry Trends
5 GCC Wheat Starch Market
5.1 Market Overview
5.2 Market Performance
5.3 Impact of COVID-19
5.4 Market Forecast
6 Market Breakup by End Use
6.1 Food and Beverages
6.1.1 Market Trends
6.1.2 Market Forecast
6.2 Paper and Textile
6.2.1 Market Trends
6.2.2 Market Forecast
6.3 Pharmaceuticals
6.3.1 Market Trends
6.3.2 Market Forecast
6.4 Feed
6.4.1 Market Trends
6.4.2 Market Forecast
6.5 Others
6.5.1 Market Trends
6.5.2 Market Forecast
7 Market Breakup by Country
7.1 Saudi Arabia
7.1.1 Market Trends
7.1.2 Market Forecast
7.1.3 Market Breakup by End Use
7.1.3.1 Food and Beverages
7.1.3.2 Paper and Textile
7.1.3.3 Pharmaceuticals
7.1.3.4 Feed
7.1.3.5 Others
7.2 UAE
7.2.1 Market Trends
7.2.2 Market Forecast
7.2.3 Market Breakup by End Use
7.2.3.1 Food and Beverages
7.2.3.2 Paper and Textile
7.2.3.3 Pharmaceuticals
7.2.3.4 Feed
7.2.3.5 Others
7.3 Others
7.3.1 Market Trends
7.3.2 Market Forecast
8 SWOT Analysis
8.1 Overview
8.2 Strengths
8.3 Weaknesses
8.4 Opportunities
8.5 Threats
9 Value Chain Analysis
10 Porters Five Forces Analysis
10.1 Overview
10.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
10.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
10.4 Degree of Competition
10.5 Threat of New Entrants
10.6 Threat of Substitutes
11 Import Trends
11.1 Saudi Arabia Wheat Starch Market: Import Trends
11.2 UAE Wheat Starch Market: Import Trends
12 Competitive Landscape
12.1 Market Structure
12.2 Key Players
12.3 Profiles of Key Players
12.3.1 Middle East Food Solution Company (MEFSCO)
12.3.2 Almasirah International
12.3.3 Delta Food Industries FZC
12.3.4 Gelimax International Group